At its July meeting, Dawson Public Power District’s board passed a resolution authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds not to exceed $9.15 million, with a maximum 20-year term, to pay for capital work plan projects.
“Bonding is a cost-effective way to pay for large, long-lasting infrastructure over several years. It helps avoid rate spikes while accessing low interest rates. Updated bond information will be presented to the board prior to final funding,” the Nebraska public power utility noted.
Two years of capital work plans were presented for the board’s review. The extended plan helps with financial planning and the challenge of long lead times for material and equipment, Dawson PPD said. Projects are selected based on reliability, growth, and benefit to customers. Some projects are divided into multi-year segments based on cost.
The 2026 work plan includes $4.75 million for 23.4 miles of upgrades. The average age of wire scheduled for replacement is 47 years.
In 2027, Dawson PPD plans to invest $6.36 million for 32.6 miles of upgrades.
Other topics included:
• Hot and dry conditions led to higher irrigation usage early in the season. In the General Manager’s report Alyssa Clemsen Roberts said the $2.85 million May wholesale power bill was 35% greater than the budget. However, the District has a positive net margin for the year to date.
• Darin Bloomquist, General Manager of the Nebraska Generation & Transmission Cooperative, Inc., spoke to the board about the renewal of the power contract with Nebraska Public Power District and wholesale power rates.
• Dawson PPD will invoice Norris Public Power District for power restoration work following a March blizzard. When districts assist each other after major storms, the cost of labor, trucks and materials are billed to the system that requested assistance.
• Safety Director Dean Kunkee reported that a statewide line worker training was held in June. The classes covered work with energized lines and special equipment.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5.
